I can do all things through him who strengthens me! ........ Philippians 4:13

2010-11-02T09:07:00.000-07:00

There's grace enough for this girl...
Today I'm just glad there's grace enough for a girl who lets her heart get ahead of her head.
Who hasn't cleaned the grout in her kitchen floor. Not once.
Who still prefers the fringes to the center of attention.
Who can feel entirely out of place even with people who love her.
Who grinds her teeth because she worries. And worries because she grinds her teeth.
Who doesn't pet her dog enough.
Or cook dinner every night.
Or accessorize her outfits (and her life) in quite the way she'd like.
Who's having a bad today and feeling guilty for being ungrateful.
Whose to-do list is never done,
whose expectations for herself are never met.
Yes, I'm glad there's grace enough for a girl like that...
Like me.
Like you.
Like all of us.
"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."
2 Corinthians 12:9

From my Daily Devotion! Loved this one!

~The Great Outdoors~

2010-04-14T09:01:00.000-07:00

We went camping in Yucaipa - I didn't really even know where that was! But it turned out to be really pretty and we had a great time!

Ronn's Niece and Nephews - so fun - but so exhausting :)

Valentines Day

2010-02-16T20:28:00.001-08:00

~ unconditional ~ constant ~ everlasting ~

~ special ~ fun ~ trustworthy ~ foundational ~

~a gift~

♥ FAMILY ♥

December 09'

2009-12-31T12:43:00.000-08:00

November 09'

2009-11-30T10:57:00.000-08:00

When I say......

2009-11-16T23:54:00.000-08:00

When I say... 'I am a Christian' I'm not shouting 'I'm clean livin''
I'm whispering 'I was lost, Now I'm found and forgiven.'
When I say... 'I am a Christian' I don't speak of this with pride.
I'm confessing that I stumble and need Christ to be my guide.

When I say... 'I am a Christian' I'm not trying to be strong.
I'm professing that I'm weak and need His strength to carry on.
When I say.. 'I am a Christian' I'm not bragging of success.
I'm admitting I have failed and need God to clean my mess.

When I say... 'I am a Christian' I'm not claiming to be perfect,
My flaws are far too visible, but God believes I am worth it.
When I say... 'I am a Christian' I still feel the sting of pain..
I have my share of heartaches, so I call upon His name.

When I say... 'I am a Christian' I'm not holier than thou,
I'm just a simple sinner who received God's good grace, somehow!'

Pretty is as Pretty does... but beautiful is just plain beautiful!

'A woman's heart should be so hidden in Christ
that a man should have to seek Him first to find her.'

by Maya Angelou

Sometimes I have to remember what I am saying when I say, "I am a Christian"!

Happy Fall :)

2009-10-31T09:05:00.000-07:00

"Fall"

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Happy 30-11 to me!!!

2009-08-27T23:12:00.000-07:00

I felt so special and loved!!! I'll let the pictures do the talking :)

Happy Bday Ronnie Ray :)

2009-07-30T20:52:00.000-07:00

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We ditched.

2009-07-22T19:21:00.000-07:00

ok, I will admit it - we ditched the 5k on Sunday - up way too late on Friday and Saturday night! But the weekend was good.

I was right about it being a great thing for the newly widowed (sounds like something people choose). Lot's of important information, but being that I'm going on 3 years - a lot of these questions have already been answered for me. Although, it was pretty amazing sitting in a room with women from all over the country and 4 other countries! All pretty much between 30 - 50 = young. Gesh - Do you think there was a need for this??? All sharing a common bond - that it sucks being a young widow (I'm sure old widow's don't like it either).

But the greatest thing I got out of this was the (excuse the gross term) diarrhea of the mouth with Stacy. We both came to some important self realizations through - wine.talking.laughter.tears.wine.dancing.eating. We both realized that it is so easy to just go on with our lives and forget where we have been and what we have been through but it's these things that have made us who we are now. And it made me soooooo grateful for my life today - I've been so blessed. Weird to say - yet good to be at a place in my life where I can say it.

We also met a new friend who came by herself - brave - and was just like us - love Nancy!!! We invited her into our elite widows club :)

And even though we ditched the 5k on Sunday (5:30 came WAY to early) we had such a great walk around the bay (probably did more mileage then if we would have done the race) and we slept in until 9:00! I feel refreshed and renewed - a pleasant surprise.

Widow Weekend...

2009-07-17T00:22:00.000-07:00

wid·ow /wid-oh/ –noun 1. a woman who has lost her husband by death and has not remarried. See also: Old, wears black, sad, pathetic, dried up.

Not: Young, with children still at home ~ except when you're me

So I'm going with my good friend Stacy to the first annual "Widow's Conference" in San Diego. My Dad asked if I was going to take a knitting seminar! What???

There are women from all over the country coming together to find a bond - a similarity. Some of the seminars actually look very interesting - Finding a new Purpose - Little Tears (how to help your child grieve) - Widow Humor - financial help - Widow's Still Wear Stilettos - and so on.... and looking forward to meeting Matt Logelin (he will be speaking). We are also letting the other member of our little widow's club (Chris Mcrea) meet us for dinner Friday night - he's a boy so he can't come to the convention!

Do I need this? Maybe ~ Maybe not..... But I do for sure need a weekend away with Stacy! She lost her husband right after I lost John. We have shared an instant bond since the first "date" we had! There is something so unique about being able to understand where someone has been - and that's why I think I also need to go this weekend!

When I first became a widow I had so many people tell me about women they knew who had lost husbands - the problem was that they were all over 60! Not a bad thing - but definitely different places in our lives - not a whole lot in common! I think this will be a great resource for young widows. And I might learn a thing or two - I'll let you know.

If it's lame - Stac and I are ditching and going shopping - that's how we roll :)

M.I.A.

2009-06-07T09:35:00.000-07:00

So I've been taking a little break from the blogging world - this is the busy season for me! I've missed you! Here is a little glimpse into what I've been up to :)

A couple of beach trips

(I've been spending some time with the boyscouts too - I'll save that for another post!)

Laguna Hills 5K

Ronn's brother and his family were staying at the Disneyland Hotel for 5 days and since we have passes we were up there ALOT. Ronn even won me this cute HUGE purple monkey that I got to carry around with me all day - so sweet :] (by the way we named him Dennis - can you guess why?)

We've had a couple of tournaments for soccer and it's been really fun - Her team has been in the top 3 every time!

So I will try to do some more updating - life should get slower now that school and soccer are almost over!!

I've missed ya'll :}

He has risen! And it's a new day!

2009-04-16T08:30:00.001-07:00

~A day in the life of a Rojas-Lakin Easter~

Our Easter bunny is kind of a dork - he brings toys and nerf guns!

Off to Church

(poor Tyler)

so cute :)

and they really do love each other!?

My Easter Hunny

once again - poor Tyler

playing with the cousins - that's what it's all about

nice fauxhawk Drew - gotta love my Son

So it was really all about the Isaiah.......

Hanging with the big boys

The whole litter

waiting for the egg hunt - that's the hardest part
no peeking!

yep - he made Easter cute!

All this - and Christ died and rose for me!

What blessings ~ my basket is full!

~fun in the sun~

2009-04-08T08:18:00.000-07:00

CREPES

Toby the Greeter

a 3 mile run for the little pouch may have been too much :)

Some things I'm lovin' on this "Wordless Wednesday"

2009-04-01T07:00:00.000-07:00

my boring kids..........

2009-03-29T08:41:00.000-07:00

So Ash was watching Mandy and got a little bored ~ so she took her out for a little photo shoot. How cute are they???

Ashley is getting pretty good - I'm pretty darn proud! Check out her blog:

http://ashleylakin-rojasphotography.blogspot.com/

Somethings fishy around here.............

2009-03-11T09:27:00.000-07:00

I think my doggy is nuts! We've had this fish tank for probably as long as we've had him (5 years) and all of a sudden the last few months he's intrigued by the fish! He barks at them and tries to lick them and just sits and stairs at them! Maybe he just noticed them?

I think he's crazy and I need the dog whisperer!

I don't know - something is fishy though................

Happy 40th J.E.R!

2009-03-05T22:51:00.000-08:00

We went to the cemetery and brought you flowers from our Garden and sang Happy Birthday to You (in our horrible Lakin-Rojas fashion). Then went to Cherry On Top in honor of you! (small compared to the party we would be having if you were here!) Miss U.

I wonder how old you are in heaven years????

Fishing....or not

2009-03-04T17:10:00.000-08:00

We went up to Lytle Creek this weekend and did some hiking and fishing. Mandy was in heaven!

Although there were a few bites - no one caught anything!

And it was the weirdest thing - it started snowing right in the middle of the day!

Mandy gave up fishing and went exploring.

This area was burnt in the fires last year and is slowly growing back - so there was a lot of dry trees and bush and obviously we weren't the only ones who had been there enjoying nature...

(kinda sad)

Ok - I did not fish - and it was not snowing (I played with one of my editing tools - hee hee). But I did love watching Ronn teach Mandy how to fish (the boys did not need instruction!), it was super cute.

I did what I do best - took pictures :)

Orange you special :)

2009-02-27T07:56:00.000-08:00

If the family were a fruit, it would be an orange, a circle of sections, held together but separable - each segment distinct.

~Letty Cottin Pogrebin

I was just thinking and praying for my family today and found this great quote about the orange. As I looked for a nice picture to put on with it I found all these funny pictures of oranges - who knew???

California is a fine place to live--if you happen to be an orange.

(Fred Allen)

12 eyes

2009-02-24T09:14:00.001-08:00

Lovin' Heath & Linds

fun little mom's night out :)

2009-02-19T11:02:00.000-08:00

You know you're getting better when....

~When someone else's pain hurts you more than your own.
~When you can tell someone else - life really DOES go on.
~One day you wake up and you don't have to remind yourself to breathe.
~You want to find a way to leave your grief in the past.
~You find you are actually enjoying living.
~You can come home and be content in an empty house.
~Your memories make you smile instead of break into tears.

~You can take down pictures because you don’t need them to remember and they might actually be making you forget that it’s ok to move on!

I've been waiting to post this. It's time.

old or new?

2009-02-18T14:37:00.000-08:00

Thanks Lisa for the tip and link to this website: http://labs.wanokoto.jp/olds

Who knew that making vintage pictures was so easy and fun :)

Some of my favorites:

(hint: to see photo's larger just click on photo)

This is one of my all time favorite photos - Mandy in her Daddy's cowboy boots with her cowie and her favorite red felt hat (that we got signed by Chris Ledoux!).

Classic.

Feeling the love.......

2009-02-17T13:50:00.000-08:00

We love our family traditions - like having a family red & pink dinner!

It's just weird...............

2009-02-12T16:42:00.000-08:00

“Know what's weird? Day by day, nothing seems to change. But pretty soon, everything's different.” Bill Watterson

I'm feeling that today. I've been so busy lately - trying to just stay above the water and catch my breath. I love my life but sometimes "weird" is the only way to describe it! Who would have thought a couple of years ago that I'd be where I am today - life is different - I am different. Life is constantly changing for me. Some people's lives never seem to change - why is that?? Am I the lucky one? Change doesn't always feel comfortable for me either - I have to learn to "go with the flow". I'm liking my new changes - it's just a little scary - it's just a little weird.

wordless wednesday in the snow

2009-02-11T10:17:00.000-08:00

2 years

2009-01-20T21:25:00.000-08:00

It's hard to believe that 2 years ago today I lost my husband. I'm always looking for reasons and trying to understand why. I know that we don't have all the answers and we are not meant to! So I try to figure out what he wants with my life - what can I do to still glorify him in this process. And here are some things I've learned:

God is always faithful to his promises
He will provide
Loved ones should never be taken for granted
Friends are gifts from god
He is not done with me yet - I am but clay
I have so much to be thankful for and there are people out there with far less than me
There was so much more to me - and I'm continually growing and surprising myself
I need to live life to it's fullest - never waste a day
I've learned to put down my pride and accept help
There can be joy in the pain

There is so much more but these are the things that I run across daily. I can honestly say that today I am happy, I have a good life, my kids are healthy and happy, I have a huge loving family and great friends. When life goes on - this is what I have, and I am blessed.

Today my older girls stayed home from school and we just hung out. We had a nice breakfast with my friend Tavia, then we went for a very special walk on the beach with my friend Kelly and her daughter Shelby. We had great conversations and some laughs. Later we met up with the family at the cemetery. I have a journal where I write down things that I want to remember about John - good - bad - funny, and I took this along and read some of the good things I want everyone to remember. Then everyone shared some more fun memories they had of him - I want these to stay alive in my kids hearts. We ended the night with a great dinner with family and friends - just like he would have wanted it.

After he passed away I went to move his car and this was the song that was playing in his cd player. I think it was a message to us from him or just a coincidence, whatever, it's a great song and we like to think it was written for us :)

My Wish
by Rascal Flats

I hope the days come easy and the moments pass slow,
and each road leads you where you want to go,
and if you're faced with a choice, and you have to choose,
I hope you choose the one that means the most to you.
and if one door opens to another door closed,
I hope you keep on walkin' 'til you find the window,
if it's cold outside,
show the world the warmth of your smile,
but more than anything, more than anything,

My wish, for you, is that this life becomes all that you want it to,
your dreams stay big, your worries stay small,
You never need to carry more than you can hold,
and while you're out there getting where you're getting to,
I hope you know somebody loves you, and wants the same things too,
Yeah, this, is my wish.

I hope you never look back, but ya never forget,
all the ones who love you, in the place you left,
I hope you always forgive, and you never regret,
and you help somebody every chance you get,
Oh, you find God's grace, in every mistake,
and always give more then you take.

But more than anything, Yeah, and more than anything,

My wish, for you, is that this life becomes all that you want it to,
your dreams stay big, your worries stay small,
You never need to carry more than you can hold,
and while you're out there getting where you're getting to,
I hope you know somebody loves you, and wants the same things too,
Yeah, this, is my wish.
this is my wish
I hope you know somebody loves you

may all your dreams stay big

It really was a good day, as good as a day like this gets.

Pine Summit or Bust!!

2009-01-14T23:53:00.001-08:00

Remember the good ol' days of going to camp???

Sappy Mom's saying good bye..........
The excitement of being with all your best friends for a whole weekend - with NO parents!

The fun van rides up the mountain.............

The fearless leaders :)

The comfy lodging (?)

The great quality photos (100's)

of nature at it's finest!

Ahhh memories to last a lifetime!

~1st Annual Cheney Olympics~

2009-01-06T22:32:00.000-08:00

We had our first official marathon family day! We vowed to be together as a family ALL day on the day after Christmas (this was actually part of our gift to our parents.) Each sibling took a portion of the day and planned events. Warning: you will get tired just reading this!

The day started with all the grandkids making breakfast:

They did a great job - only slight chaos

You have to start any Olympics with a warm up!

Thanks to Daveed for leading stretches:

Now - LET THE GAMES BEGIN!!

2 teams - family rivalry

The first event was bowling - me against sweet Gracie....

With the help of the wind she got them ALL down!!! Ughh - Beat by a 5 year old!

But look at my form.....

Next was a shoot off between Benny and DJ.

Then it was Court against Mandy on the balance beam....

bye bye

A jump off between Ash and Tay-Tay

Then a friendly game of Frisbee golf with Sean and David

I think this was the best event (cuz I didn't have to do it)

Digging for cherry's....
Heath & Jordan - what great sports!

Lily did great (with a little bit of help from Ben)
in a puzzle-off with Mandy

Amber & Tracy finding safety pins in rice - harder then it looks!

Grandpa and Grandma battle their memories in a family trivia game!

Gotta love Pictionary!
(Heath and Linds were the artist)

The next game was a scavenger hunt in the house where we had to find an object for every letter of CHENEY - and we have no pictures of this because I was the scavenger!
This brought us to a tie between team 1 and team 2 (can anyone remember the team names? help me out here)
so we had a little impromptu tie-breaker race.

And YaY!!!! My team won :}

After some relaxing and play time..........

The day was only HALF done

We did some bumper bowling

And by then we were famished - so we hit the nearest pizza parler!

And to end the night we had a quiet, cuddly family movie night

While it was a very long day - it was probably one of the most fun things we've ever done as a family! We are a big, crazy, chaotic, loving, funny, creative & lucky family.

a little bit of christmas

2009-01-01T21:58:00.000-08:00

We had such a great - busy holiday season that I don't even know where to start so I'm going to just post a million pictures :)

I have been so blessed and feel very thankful for my kids, family, and friends! God is so good.
But I have to say that by the time New Years passed - I was exhausted and ready to get 2009 rolling!

Happy New Year!!!

I'm so proud

2008-12-30T16:04:00.000-08:00

~Such a cute family~

I have 500 holiday season pictures and this is the only one I can manage to have time to post! I'll get to the others later :)

I'm dreaming of a white Christmas.....

2008-12-18T18:54:00.000-08:00

Oh wait - I'm not dreaming! When I walked out my front door this morning this is what greeted me! Snow on our little Saddleback Mountain (more like a big hill). It was so pretty!

(click on the above picture for a better view)

We decided to jump in the car this afternoon and go find the snow! We were on a snow hunt!

This was really as close as we could get without going off roading! And as soon as we found a good place to stop and take pictures - the clouds had covered our snow!

Oh well - it was still a fun little adventure - and still pretty - and exciting for this little OC community :)

Wordless Wednesday.......

2008-12-17T22:29:00.000-08:00

Dog Days

Sometimes they lose and sometimes they WIN!!!!

2008-12-15T08:26:00.000-08:00

It was a long, cold weekend out on the soccer field. But this is why I love my kids playing sports - sometimes they lose and there is a lesson in losing. But sometimes they win - and take 1st place! And it does feel really good :)

This is a Plus Team which is kind of like Ayso's Club team. We have been training since July! It has been a huge commitment for us (Friday night practices stink!!) But when you see how well they play together now - it makes it all worth while! Congrats Fusion!!!

Solid Advice

2008-12-11T08:58:00.001-08:00

My life is so busy and seems so out of control sometimes. I've been trying to say NO, slow down, and enjoy this season. I want to remember and live CHRIST this year!
Someone once sent me this email and I love what it says - I printed it out and hung it on my desk, but haven't read it in months, then today as I was scurrying by, I stopped and read it -

Rules (solid advice) from God
Wake Up!... Decide to have a good day. "Today is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." Psalms 118:24

Dress Up!... The best way to dress up is to put on a smile . A smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks. "The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at outward appearance; but the Lord looks at the heart ." I Samuel 16:7

Hush Up!... Say nice things and learn to listen. God gave us two ears and one mouth, so He must have meant for us to do twice as much listening as talking. "He who guards his lips guards his soul." Proverbs 13:3

Stand Up!....for what you believe in. Stand for something or you will fall for anything..."Let us not be weary in doing good; for at the proper time, we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good..." Galatians 6:9-10

Look Up!... to the Lord. "I can do everything through Christ who strengthens me ." Philippians 4:13

Reach Up! .. for something higher. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not unto your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him, and He will direct your path." Proverbs 3:56

Lift Up! ... your prayers. "Do not worry about anything; instead PRAY ABOUT EVERYTHING." Philippians 4:6

It's good to stop and reflect on your priorities sometimes.............

thankful...........

2008-11-28T19:41:00.000-08:00

loving my family

loving my family ~ loving their family

blessings

HOMEWORK?

2008-11-19T22:28:00.000-08:00

Could homework really be this comfy?

Should homework be this comfy?

Go Big Red!

2008-11-15T00:17:00.001-08:00

Another fun cheerleading clinic at the high school (MVHS- my Alma Mater)

Friends always make it so much more fun!

Notice the score board!
Pooooor Crapo - oh I mean Capo Valley High
(I guess a little bit of high school rivalry still lives in me!)

we all scream for ice cream

2008-11-12T23:09:00.000-08:00

Nothing like ice cream and a game of hide and seek with sweet friends to make a day perfect!

Someone luvs peanuts!!!

Chop Sticks

2008-11-09T14:02:00.000-08:00

I was blessed to have some friends from church over to my house for an Asian feast! It was so yummy and fun! We used chop sticks (some of us used forks and some of us used beginner chop sticks).
This is our dinner for 8 (or in my case 7), and it has been fun to get to have some small group discussion and Wii time!

Trick or treat - smell my feet

2008-10-31T23:56:00.000-07:00

YUM YUM & FUN FUN

You probably don't want to smell our feet - cuz' they really hurt at the end of the night!

Celebrity Night..................

2008-10-31T09:16:00.001-07:00

Thanks to the Bush's for putting out the "Red Carpet"! It was a blast - from all the yummy food to the fun games :) Can't wait for your spring Luau!!

Happy Birthday Momma

2008-10-27T22:44:00.000-07:00

I love you and hope you felt how appreciated you are! Your the best.....................

Sixth File, Sixth Picture

2008-10-22T23:06:00.000-07:00

Kind of a random picture:

(these are my Brittany Spears rollershoes - don't judge)

that happened this night..............

Good Times

sock hop

2008-10-19T14:29:00.001-07:00

50's Sock Hop

Mandy had so much fun Friday night at school!
She was so excited because she got to have a real "DANCE"

Wordless Wednesday.......

2008-10-08T21:35:00.000-07:00

I'm jumping on this bandwagon :)

Homecoming 08'

It's what I do

2008-10-06T21:40:00.000-07:00

I'm often asked about the "part time jobs" I have. One of my favorite things I get to do, which borders on hobby rather than job, is do flowers for weddings and events. Here is how my weekend usually goes:

It starts with a Friday trip to the flower mart in Carlsbad. I love the fall colors and ideas - it's really hard to control myself and I have to keep reminding myself "wedding flowers Shannon!!" But I usually come home with some extra treasures (last year I got one of these awesome leaf wreaths).

Then my kitchen becomes a flower workshop and my house becomes an icebox! I have to keep the house cool so the flowers don't wilt - the kids always know when to pull out the sweaters - even if it's 100 outside!

(notice the much needed Starbucks!)

Then the creativity starts flowing and the arrangements start to come together.

Then comes crunch time on the wedding day - I wish I had a picture of me and my pose' running around getting things put up and ready! (by the way, thank you Cathi, Heather & Amber - you were awesome! Also to my Dad, he was there hanging the lanterns and ended up cleaning up after me!

The idea here was for it to look like we went and picked wild flowers from the neighbors garden! Light and airy.

I had a blast doing this wedding - It is always fun to put a personal touch into it when I know the bride & groom. Congrats Katie and John - you were beautiful! Thank you for letting me be part of your day!

And there you have it, it's what I do.................

TACO TUESDAY

2008-09-30T23:56:00.000-07:00

good times,
spent with good friends,
eating yummy $1.25 tacos :)

How much is that doggy in the window??

2008-09-21T22:24:00.000-07:00

She is so sweet and innocent...............

But this is too many dogs for one house so sadly (insert tear) she must go

And Taz thinks it's hilarious (insert big dog laugh).

The view from where I stand

2008-09-19T08:08:00.001-07:00

It's funny how a beautiful sunrise can put everything into perspective.

Have a great day :)

My head spins

2008-09-17T12:08:00.001-07:00

I seem to go from feeling sad and stressed - to happy and feeling so content with my life - within a 24 hour period.

Making the big decisions in life alone is a scary thing. I do call on and trust the people in my life - I have been blessed. But it still falls on my lap.

I start in the morning with helping my 10 year old get ready for school and listening to all her 5th grade drama, then on to my teenagers who complain about their teachers and between wanting a job, a boyfriend, social time and coaching soccer don't have time to do their chores - oh and can they have gas $$$???? Then my 20 year old calls and is just starting out and has so many questions about life and love - my heart worries for him daily. Can I give these children that God has trused ME with, the right direction and advice??

Where should we live? This house is tooo much mula. Should I be on a TIGHT budget and get a little place for me and the girls - should I lower my pride and go stay with my parents?? (which the girls are all for by the way). I am thankful for just having the options.

Then I'm juggling working 2-3 part time jobs (which is another blessing - I love what I do!!) But I do get a little tired which can make me a little SASSY (as my bro-in law Donald so lovingly told me). I need to work on patience and getting to bed earlier! I get up at 5:30 to meet Jill for our workout then end up staying up late doing "stuff". I've decided I need more than 6 hours of sleep to function rationally.

There are no easy answers to my life. But I'm trying to give it all to God. He has never failed me - I've always been so blessed.

My Aunt Lois just sent me an email with this verse (literally while I was typing)

Psalm 55:22 'Cast your cares on the Lord, and He will sustain you; He will never let the righteous fall.'

Thank you Auntie - that helped!!

And the other verse I've been trying to memorize is:

Psalm 121
A song of ascents. 1 I lift up my eyes to the hills— where does my help come from?
2 My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.
3 He will not let your foot slip— he who watches over you will not slumber;
4 indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.
5 The LORD watches over you— the LORD is your shade at your right hand;
6 the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night.
7 The LORD will keep you from all harm— he will watch over your life;
8 the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.

Thank you Lord for sustaining me in the midst of chaos and fear.......and for stopping my head from spinning :)

The preparty game............

2008-09-16T09:39:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday Heather, Benny & David

2008-09-15T15:34:00.000-07:00

(cupcakes by Kelly)

School is now in session.............

2008-09-09T12:32:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I'm just a week late, but school has officially started. I know this because the house is quiet! All 3 girls like their classes and teachers (except Amber who had to change out of Spanish 3 IB - too much for her). But fall is in full gear - school, soccer, cooler weather - wait it's 90 today.What fun would school be without friends????

Happy Fall Ya'll

Mandy the Bass Lake Jones Cove Jr. Lifeguard

2008-09-06T18:05:00.001-07:00

Bass Lake

2008-09-05T16:31:00.001-07:00

What a perfect way to end the summer! Lindsey's family has a house on the Lake. It was such a blessing to spend this awesome time with family and friends.

Oh baby.....................

Eating on the deck

the guys playing some stupid game

then we played the greatest game ever - catchphrase.

cuties and my new camera :)

The top of the boat was the popular place to be

Drew, Mandy and I Kayaking through the jungle - or cove

Mandy thought it was an adventure

Shakes at The Forks - so yummy

Time to play behind the boat:
Ashley & DJ

Ashley & David

Amber & Taytay

Mandy & Chloe

Ashley wake boarding

My brother - weeeeeehhhhhooooo

Hiking up to Bass Lake Falls and them swimming in them - so fun!

Wait - if they can do it - so can we! Go Moms!!!!

It was freezing COLD!!!

The parade..................

We really enjoyed our time with our family and the Damato's and the Theules :) Thanks again Sean and Linds for inviting us - XOXO

I just love it up there! We grew up camping there and it was so good to go back and enjoy this beautiful place! It was kind of the quiet before the storm.........................

Now - school and chaos must start...............

Goodbye Bass Lake ~ Goodbye Summer

happiness is............................

2008-08-29T07:44:00.000-07:00

friends, 2 party boats tied together, a lake, yummy food, refreshing drinks, tiaras for all, a princess crown for me, presents :), ending early enough so I could go to the camera store and buy my new camera (thanks to all my family and friends - more on my new toy later).

Thanks to these two ladies for all their planning - it was a success and I LOVED it!
Thank you Kelly and Cathi - I love you................

The crew.....................

I felt so loved and special - I am blessed.

I would love to post more pics and write more but I'm off to Bass Lake in an hour and I'm not even packed yet! I promise to do more when I get a chance - ta ta :)

Happy Birthday to Me!

2008-08-28T15:25:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my birthday - my dreaded 40! There is just something about not being able to say I'm thirty something! I feel old. Don't get me wrong - I'm thankful for my life and I'm blessed with so many wonderful family and friends!! I just hate saying the word - forty. Maybe I just won't say it.

I did get this great cruiser from my family!

And I did get help blowing out the candles!I had a wonderful evening bbqing at the Lake with my family, the Keller's and the Hamen's. I will post more pics later but right now I'm off to another celebration with some friends - I'm not sure what cuz they will not tell me! But I'll be back..........

Love these............

2008-08-22T15:22:00.000-07:00

Anyone who knows me (or has seen my blog, which you have - cuz' you are reading it now) knows that I love photography! I always have my camera in my hand when I leave the house - and sometimes in the house :) I have found the cutest things - they are camera strap covers! I think they are soooo cute and functional. Since I can't sew - I buy :} Check them out on Shealynn's cute etsy shop.

Camping at Mission Bay 08'

2008-08-19T18:35:00.001-07:00

My Big, Wonderful, Crazy Family

2008-08-12T23:32:00.001-07:00

~loving them~

No longer a teen.................

2008-08-11T22:54:00.000-07:00

My oldest is now OLD.

I have a 20 year old - and am having a hard time accepting it!

We celebrated his birthday this weekend while we were at Sean and Lindsey's for Silas' 1 year party - that is kind of strange also - my brother has a one year old and I have a 20 year old!
What a good sport (he's gonna kill me)I love this boy

and it's a good thing because he is now back living with me (temporarily).

And he brings little ones

One is a little puppy.

So that makes 4, yes 4, dogs at my house.

It's a little bit chaotic.

I'm a little bit on edge.

I think I need the Dog Whisperer!

Happy Birthday Drew & welcome home.......

All I ask is that you pick up the dog mess in the backyard :)

While the kids are away........the Mom will play :)

2008-08-02T08:56:00.000-07:00

Soooo my kids are back after a week at camp. I was alone, well I was supposed to be. I ended up with a full house on a majority of the nights. Which was ok with me - sleep overs are fun!!!! The week started with a wedding (pic's down below). Then was my friend Jill's Birthday party, after that was a little get together with some of my friends whose kids where also at camp. I went to two concerts (Colbie Caillat and John Mayer & Rod Stewart and Bryan Adams), a concert/picnic in the park with 80's music), and of course Thursday beach night. And I worked during some of the days - Whewwwww, I can't say that I was well rested and ready for the kids to come back! I did miss them a lot - my house was way to quiet (when I was home). I don't have many pictures because the girls had both my cameras but I do have those wedding pics :)

So what else do you do at a wedding where you really don't know anyone

except some long lost relatives................

dance and get crazy (and eat the good food)

This would be us at the beginning of the night (before dancing & wine)

Aunt Lois and Uncle Ray & my Mom and Dad had a dance-off and wow can they still bust-a-move! And I wish I had pictures of my Mom trying to breakdance (pee-your-pants hilarious)! David was definitely the entertainment for the night - you should see some of his own made up dance moves!!

Even Grandma Katie was booging!

This is the lovely, sweaty, end result......

So we are back to normal life (if you can call my life normal). I have to say that even though this week was very full and fun, I realized what my life would be like without my kids and I'm so thankful for this chaos that is mine!!!!

~Dinner and Dessert~

2008-07-29T09:31:00.000-07:00

I've had two request.............

Where is Yogurtland? Well if your not in the OC your out of luck! But if you are then you must go there! It is off Alicia and Valencia (across from the community center), and I just was informed there is one in RSM and in the Kaleidoscope. They have probably 15 flavors of yogurt and a whole bunch of toppings - including cocoa puffs - my family's fav! And it's all self serve, so make it like you want it! Yum - I think I need one now.

How do you make Poppyseed Chicken? Ok, this is from the top of my head so bear with me..................

I take a 9 x 13 pan and layer the bottom with 2 cups rice (I use brown) then add chicken (any kind works - legs, thighs and breast).
In a bowl mix 1 can of cream of chicken soup, with 1 can of cream of mushroom soup and 1/2 cup of sour cream. pour this mixture over chicken. (I use healthy request soup and low fat sour cream and it still turns out good)
Add 2 cans of water to dish (check this half way through and make sure you do not need to add more water.
Use one roll of whole wheat Ritz crackers. I put the whole roll in a large baggy and crush them with the soup can. Mix with 1/2 stick melted butter or margarine and 2 Tablespoons poppy seeds.
sprinkle cracker mixture over chicken.
I cover for half the cooking time and take off foil in the end to make the crackers a little crispy.
Bake at 350 for 45 - 60 minutes. Don't forget the non-stick spray!

This is supper yummy and my kids gobble it up!

So there you have it - dinner and dessert! :)

Update: I just found out that there are Yogurtlands in 5 states!

Who knew??

ABC's of ME :)

2008-07-27T08:58:00.000-07:00

I was tagged by my sister-in-law Lindsey & my sister Heather, to do the abc's of me:

A. Attached or single? single
B. Best friend? I'm blessed with many - my sisters & family, Kelly & Cathi, and everyone else - you know who you are!

C. Cake or pie? Either/or?????? how bout both - Chocolate cake & Claim Jumper peach pie (seasonal)
D. Day of Choice? Sunday - so relaxing
E. Essential Item? rainbow sandals, iced tea

F. Favorite color? sky blue
G. Gummy bears or worms? bears - the baby ones
H. Hometown? Mission ViejoI. Favorite indulgence? YogurtLand - Kahlua with Butterfingers on it - yum - any day!
J. January or July? July
K. Kids? 4 :) L. Life isn't complete without? God's grace & See letter I.
M. Marriage Date? May 4, 1996
N. Number of brothers and sisters? 3 sisters, 2 brothers
O. Oranges or apples? depends on the season - fall = apples, summer = oranges
P. Phobias? motorcycles, I saw one go down and now I freak out whenever I see them!
Q. Quotes? Our circumstances are not an accurate reflection of God's goodness. Whether life is good or bad, God's goodness, rooted in His character, is the same.
--Helen Grace Lescheid
R. Reasons to smile? Faithful God, fun & good kids, fun & loving family, fun & caring friends
S. Season of choice? honestly - there are things I like about each season (Fall = leaves changing colors, Winter = snow, Spring = flowers, Summer = beach)T. Tag 5 people: Jen, Kristen , Courtney, Jill, Crysti, and carrie (Carrie - that's 3)
U. Unknown fact about me? I'm really good at Wii Golf
W. Worst habit? taking my shoes off wherever I sit!
X. X-ray or ultrasound? ultrasound
Y. Your favorite food? sushi then yogurt (see Letter I) - a perfect meal!
Z. Zodiac sign? Virgo - if it matters................

WE DID IT!!!!!

2008-07-22T18:36:00.000-07:00

And they're off..........................

What a fun morning! We ran the MissionViejo High School 5k. It was on the El Toro Marine Base which was so neat to see, and to run on the landing strip!

Run Jill & Shannon - RUN

Congrats Cathi & Amber on winning medals!!!!!!

WE DID IT!!

Jill and I were just happy to beat our time and to not be last :)

(we actually ended up coming in 6 & 7 in our age division!)

It has been so fun and rewarding to be working out with Jill every morning - the good conversation, the laughing, the sweat, the complaining, the sweat, the accountability!

Thanks Jill for hanging in there and we are not even done yet -

works in progress :)

Fun day......................

R & R

2008-07-20T08:52:00.001-07:00

Welcome to paradise!! This is what the first day of my vacation looked like...................

Then it cleared and we got to play outside :)

Our family got out for a little R & R at the river, which if you've been to Laughlin you know it's not really relaxing, fun - but not so relaxing. It should be called G & G - GO GO GO. We played on the water during the days (which ended up being kinda a disaster - 2 out of 3 Wave Runners broke down within the first 3 minutes! But the next day it went a little better - they lasted almost 4 hours - one was burning oil and had to be taken in, then my cousin hit a sand bar and got rocks in the propeller, the current took her miles down the river and we had to go rescue her!) . Then at night went out to dinner with the whole family and played until late. Believe it or not, these are just about the only pictures I got! We were there with 26 other people and I don't have any pics of them - bummer.

It was - as always - a fun little trip to the River.

red, white & blue

2008-07-05T10:53:00.000-07:00

We had a very relaxing 4th of July this year.

We did have one little outing to the Mission Viejo Street Fair. But it was hotter than you know where, so we pretty much got our dippin dots and came home back to the pool!

We played a wild game of "FAMILY FEUD" (and the Keller's joined us)

We watched fireworks at the Lake. We actually sat very close to where they were shooting them off so it was very cool to be right underneath them!

I love where I live and I don't just mean Mission Viejo, we are so lucky to live in this country. And I'm feeling very indebted to the men who are serving to keep our country like it is. And I'm feeling the need to do something for them or their families - any ideas?????

I hope you all enjoyed your 4th with your loved ones :)

Run like the wind............

2008-07-04T12:01:00.000-07:00

We ran our first family 5k! Well part of the family anyway. It was really fun - it was the Lake Forest Family 5k. The girls went ahead of me but I did beat my best time! (We don't have our official times yet) It was a great way to kick off the 4th!!! Have a great day ya'll :)

DOUBLE DIGITS

2008-07-01T09:26:00.000-07:00

It has been such a busy week that I haven't been able to post about Mandy's Birthday! Gesh. She turned 10 on the 26th! I can't believe my baby is a "preteen".

Sorry for all the pictures but here goes - Her day started with waking up to about 50 "happy birthday" signs that her sister's posted all over the house! Here are just a few :)

Then it was off to her favorite breakfast spot!

THEN, we had vacation bible school this week and she was a jr. helper (and I was the official photographer - so fun) but they called her up on stage and had everyone sing to her!

Then for lunch we went with friends and grandma to Ruby's.

THEN, we went down to the beach with friends for some smores and hot dogs!

We ended the day with a giant chocolate chip cookie!

BUT wait - there's more!

(getting tired yet?)

This weekend we had "CAMP MANDY"

Thanks for the cute sign Cathi!

It was really fun - we put up two tents in the back yard and had a good old fashioned camp out!

We played about 5 games (including a seed spitting contest - yum)

The kids also got to paint pet rocks (this is a great way to get rid of all the unwanted little rocks around your yard - haaaaaa am I smart or what???)

Then there was the decorate your own cupcake station..........

Opening presents around the fire...........................

When the boys all left - the real fun began!

Smores right before bed time?

(ok, so maybe I'm not the smartest)

BED TIME - YEAHHHHHHH

Are you exhausted just from reading this? So you can imagine how I feel! I think every kid needs a sleepover at least once in their life - this was IT!

I love my little Mandita and am so thankful for the little spark she brings to our family! She is at a fun age. She wants so badly to be little miss independent (like her sisters) and yet still relies so much on me. I'm going to relish this time I have with her, now that we are in double digits! Pleaseeeeee God - slow down this processsssss!!!

Happy 10th Birthday Amanda!

~I love u~

.............strike a pose...............

2008-06-24T19:21:00.000-07:00

What do you do with four pretty teenagers and an empty

Fashion Island?

You do a silly photo shoot of course!!

Thank you to my lovely assistant!

I felt like I was in my college photography class again! Did anyone else go to fun places to do photo assignments?

We had a blast going to dinner then walking around - and it really was empty - I guess Monday is the best night to go shopping!

I'm so glad summer is here :)

Honk Honk...............

2008-06-17T20:31:00.000-07:00

This Birthday just keeps getting better and better.....................

And they thought the ipod and straightener were the big presents!

But who gets to drive it first???

The one who gets there first (alive)

(guess who won)

Thanks for the Taco Salad Fiesta Cathi - YUMMY!

Jeff & his partner's were gracious enough to donate the truck -
THANK YOU Utility Specialist!!
I cannot believe how much we have been blessed.

God has been so faithful in providing for us!

We not only have a God who is soooo giving and good,

but friends who are so giving and so good!

It's unbelievable. It's amazing. It's humbling.

I'm overwhelmed once again..........

SWEET 17!

2008-06-16T07:30:00.000-07:00

How sweet it is to be 17!

Its true - Amber and Ashley are 1 more year closer to being able to vote and buy cigarettes.

Ashley Nicole

Your picture is in the dictionary under "sweetheart". Your loving, giving, heart is so apparent in all you do. Your sensitive and creative. I'm so blessed to have a daughter who cares more about others then herself. It's been so great watching you be involved in the leadership ministries at church! I love you so much and pray that you protect that open heart of yours, but not so much that you don't let other's see how beautiful you are :}

Amber Noel

Your picture is under "dictator" just kidding. You are so strong and independent that sometimes it scares me (probably because I see so much of me in you). You want so much to grow up and take on so much responsibility - but remember the words of our favorite Trace Adkins song "Your gonna miss this". Take your time and enjoy every stage that your in - your right where God wants you! I love you and am so thankful for a fun & wonderful daughter like you!!!

Happy 17th TWINkies!

How sweet it is....................

I love you Daddy

2008-06-15T08:46:00.000-07:00

As I look back on my childhood I see how lucky I was to have a father like you! You are probably the kindest - do anything for anyone - man I know! You have always been there for me with words of wisdom (sometimes A LOT of words) a hug or just a kiss on the forehead. The point is you were always there, always involved - from Indian Princess' (Big Flame and Little Spark), to coaching, to homework, to taxing, to being my personal ATM (we won't tell Mom how much ATMing you did), to just being a loving & fun Dad. Our family has always been your priority! I don't think you ever missed one of our soccer/softball/baseball/volleyball games and/or singing - theatre shows (and with 4 kids doing stuff all at once that is a huge task!) We were blessed with numerous camping trips every year! We got to travel around the whole US in our Motorhome! And all of our Lake Tahoe camping (which happen to be conveniently located down the streets from the casino's) with everything from water rafting to bike rides. We weren't the richest family on the block but we quite possibly were the richest in love & family spirit! Your Godly example had a huge impact on how I raise my kids. I don't think I could have been blessed with a better father - I love you Daddy.

And because you are such an involved, loving Grandfather - my kids are blessed also!

And for putting up with this group - you will surly be rewarded in heaven!!!!!!

GOLD RUSH OR BUST

2008-06-12T08:43:00.001-07:00

There's nothing better than a 4th grade play to end the year with!

It was cute and humorous

and I actually learned somethings about California

(better than boring and long)
And just to make you feel like you were actually there...................

I'm so glad they did this and that she had a blast being in it!

(you would have thought she was staring on Broadway - she was so nervous and excited)

I think it's important for the kids to learn about where they live.

Last year they learned all about Orange County (I also learned a lot from this play).

Fun Stuff............

Happy Bday Graciepoo

2008-06-10T12:29:00.000-07:00

Happy 5th Bday my special little niece!

you are a blessing to our family!

and Mandy's little buddy................

we love you sooooo much!!!!

XOXO

distant cousins..............

2008-06-05T20:53:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday night we went down to San Diego to see my Dad's cousin's son, wife & kids (did you get that?) I first met Lance and Kristen in Montana a couple of years ago at a "Cheney Family Reunion" (one of the best trips we ever took) and just this last year got reconnected with Kristen through the blogging world! Sooo cool - this blogging thing! They are such great people and we had a really fun dinner at Pat and Oscars (yummy bread sticks). They were out here because she ran the big marathon in San Diego - you go girl!

It's a cousin sandwich :)

The Momma's (Me, Courtney, & Kristen)

A whole bunch of Cheney's!

Mandy & Morgan = new buddies

It's a blessing to have family all over the country and to feel so connected with them! It was great to see you guys - I feel an Idaho trip coming on :}

Jump Rope for Heart

2008-06-04T15:45:00.001-07:00

Mandy was given a very special award today.........

She raised the most amount of money for the

American Heart Association

in her school's

"Jump Rope for Heart"

I did not know she was going to get up there and talk - this was her speech (I'm bummed i couldn't video and take pic's at same time - oh well):

"Most of you know that on January 20th of last year my dad passed away. But what you might not know is that he passed away because he had heart disease and an enlarged heart. It was important for me to raise as much money as I could to help find a cure for heart disease so that no one else's Dad or Mom has to die from this disease."

"insert my tears here"
I want to personally thank everyone who helped and donated money for this cause. It really did mean a lot to her and the AHA. The whole school raised over $2000.00 and with your help Mandy raised almost $500.00!

She was a little girl on a mission...............

Back to the future.....

2008-06-03T09:35:00.001-07:00

Ok folks, Cherry on Top

to whoever can name the most

people in this picture.

I'll give you one - My Andrew is standing in the back with the brown hat on. (I found this picture in a stack - must be from winter camp???) Which explains the bad quality - disposable camera.

sorry CR - love you & had to do it!

More Monday Madness..........

2008-05-27T22:25:00.000-07:00

Good Food, Good Friends, Good Fun

Friends cookin' (dogs and smores)

Chrissie and I gabbin'

Girls swimmin'

Mandy reflectin'

Cathi & I snugglin'

Mom hooverin'

Jeff playin'
All of us culd-a-sacin' (is that a word?)
fireworks shootin'
Neighborhood blackin'

(We did all this with no electricity! Blackout lasted until 3 in the morning - we did not)

Fun, Fun Memorial Day - thanks Hamens & crew!

XOXO

Happy Memorial Day!

2008-05-26T14:57:00.000-07:00

We had a fun "1st" today! We went to the First Annual Laguna Hills Half Marathon/5k. It was really fun and noooo I did not run (this time) but Mandy did! She had a blast - this is her thing! The kids race was 1/2 mile and she was pumped - We had to buy her new shoes & she could hardly sleep last night!

Waiting for Jeff to come in from his 1/2 marathon!! (He had his best time by the way)

At the starting line...................

GOOOOOOO Mandy!!!!!!!!!

She took 3rd place overall and 1st girl!

Congrats to all the runners! (Cathi got her best time also!)

It was fun running with the Reynolds also, and thanks Dave for putting this whole thing on - it was a great success

I'm a very proud Momma! Not so much because she did well but because she really put her heart into it. Her Daddy always told her she was a fast runner and that she would be in the Olympics some day! Well I don't know about that, but I know that every time she runs she is thinking about what he told her. I tell her that it's not about winning but about enjoying it! Doing her personal best - no one will ever ask for more (this goes for all aspects of her life). I pray she doesn't put too much pressure on herself - but is grateful when she does do her best!

This was her first real race and I have a feeling it won't be her last - she said she's ready for the 5k in July! Which means I need to be ready also - yikes!

Happy Memorial Day!

Prayers to all who are serving right now!

Heartfelt thanks to those who have served!

Derby Days

2008-05-22T07:42:00.000-07:00

It's Derby Time! Every year for Awana (church program for children) the kids get to make these wood cars and race them. So you know what that means..............................parents start your engines.

Jeff with his shaping power tools:

Me with my power tools..............

Wait- what are the girls doing???????????

"Girls get your buns over here and make your cars!!!!"

Cute cars ~ Cute girls

On your mark, get set, go.........................

Ok, between all this car making we had time to watch American Idol and we definitely have our favorite!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Are we really turning 40???

2008-05-19T16:34:00.000-07:00

Happy 40th my Friend!!

30 years and our friendship is stronger than ever! I love you like a sister Kelly and am so, so grateful that God has put you in my life - where would I be without you???? (Those high school years were pretty crazy - wait - we're still crazy!) Love ya girl!!!!!

p.s. - you make 40 look HOT!!!

time warp........

2008-05-19T15:57:00.000-07:00

Back to the 70's and 80's........

Jeff with his 2 hot dates (hey, it was the 70's wasn't it??)

Cathi looked so cute in her 80's stuff! She actually looked 16! Jeff and I thought we looked like the 70's parents and she was our 80's daughter :)

Dontcha' kind of miss all the blue eyeshadow and blue mascara????? (come on - you know you wore it!)

This was my awesome "name that tune" team! We did great with the 60's and 80's (70's - not so good)

Thanks Kristen and Gary - It was RAD!!!!

Our Jords

2008-05-16T08:34:00.000-07:00

Happy 6th Birthday Jordi!!!!

We have loved since before you came into this world!!

I love that your get your love of photography from me :}

Mandy's "Mini Me"
We love your goofy personality (that's why we all get along so well)

Happy "Birth"day to you too Momma! You done good.

Little Monkey, we will always be here for you and I pray daily for you and your life. You are very special to us (and many more)! XOXO Love you!

New friends

2008-05-14T15:56:00.000-07:00

So, I had lunch with some new friends today. We are going to call ourselves our own "widow club" (which we HATE that W word - prize to anyone who can think of a better name for our new lunch bunch). I truly enjoyed meeting Chris and Stacie, it was fun and we had that common bond from the moment we met. It's so nice to sit, chat, eat, and have stuff in common with other people (nothing against 80 yr old widows - just different places in our lives). We are going to try and meet up for lunch on a regular basis just to share and encourage each other. I am looking forward to our next get together :) What a blessing! Thanks Chris for pulling this off and for lunch!

(you guys did know you would be my next blog didn't you???)

No better way to spend my mothers day :)

2008-05-12T19:05:00.000-07:00

I can't think of a better way to spend this day then with my kids and my mom! My day was awesome:

Ashley got up before the sun and went to the store to buy flowers for me and stuff for breakfast burritos!

She actually made breakfast all by herself!

We kinda didn't make it to church but I got some stuff done that I was stressing out about!

Went to the lake with my whole family and relaxed and ate and played!

Spent the day with my kids :}

Spent the day with my MOM and family.

Spend the day with my DAD - Happy Birthday DAD!!!!!

Then I worked the RUSH concert which was actually pretty good and I made some $.

It was a full day but a fun day!

David & the kids playing some hoops (notice David and Mandy concocting some sneaky plan)

Grandma & Grandpa playing baseball with the kids (I think Mandy got Grandma out - how rude)

playin with da baby........

Hangin with the homies.................

Mom's girlies

Daddy's Angels

............My Life............

Grandma got a new car!

2008-05-08T21:22:00.000-07:00

I'm so happy for my mom - she got a new car today! Her and I hit the dealers and got a deal! Only 3 hours and a couple of dollars later she drove off with the car of her dreams (ok maybe not her dream car but she really liked it). It is loaded, has leather, sun roof, 6 disk cd changer (she owns NO CD's) 100,000 mile warranty, great gas mileage, and her favorite thing - heated seats!

My Mom & Dad haven't had the best of luck with cars, and she has been thinking about a new car since (at least) October! So I'm so proud of her for just going for it! Congrats Mom - you deserve it more than anyone I know - love you.

p.s. I wouldn't have missed wealing and dealing for the world - I love that part - I know I'm weird.

Photo Booths..........

2008-05-07T14:58:00.001-07:00

How fun are photo booths????

Court and I went to a launch party for a new website called weddingchicks.com.

It was fun, like a little reception - with no bride and groom!

I love being Courtney's little assistant.

My Life (pic contest)

2008-05-06T17:10:00.000-07:00

The reason I'm here............................

I know it's a little early for mothers day but I'm entering a photo contest and this is one of my favorite pictures of my kids. I'm so blessed to have them. They are my reward. Happy early Mother's Day!!

good.....bad......& a little sad

2008-05-05T15:27:00.000-07:00

GOOD:

Stagecoach Festival #2

Good Friends (& sissy):

Hanging out at the condo on the golf course:

and just picnicking with 60,000 of my closest friends :}Awesome music (here is just a few):

Eagles

The Judds:

Rascal Flats

Big and Rich

Trace Adkins

Bad:

Amber broke her collar bone in her soccer game on Sunday! She will be out for 8 weeks! yikes! Luckily my Mom and Dad (and Jeff) were all there to help her and take her to the hospital! (The one game I'm not there and she gets hurt - gesh!) We did come home early - no Tim McGraw or Carrie Underwood this time - oh well

A Little Sad:

Happy 12th anniversary John Eric

5/4/96

you gotta love Ashley in this picture - story of my life!!!

Woooo whata weekend - a little bit of everything!

Locks of Love

2008-05-01T21:44:00.000-07:00

This is the before:

This is the after:

The Mandy's both decided that is was time to cut their hair and wanted to give it to Locks of Love.

The awesome thing about this was that they did not know that the other one was thinking the same thing.

Mandy & Mandy have been friends since they were babies.

(aren't Tav & I cute)

The Reyes Family is very special to the Rojas Family! We have been through a lot together and I am so thankful that God put us in each others lives. What a blessing they are to us :}

Anyway, this is how it all went down:

going.............

going............

Gone............

You made me very proud and made some little boy/girl very happy!

Ever have one of these days???????

2008-04-28T21:51:00.000-07:00

Why am I always the green post-it????

So glad that the sun comes up tomorrow and it's a brand new day!!

Best thing about today: dinner and jacuzzing at Hamens :}

just being silly............

2008-04-24T08:26:00.000-07:00

Have a great day :}

~short and fun~

2008-04-22T21:36:00.000-07:00

(kinda like me)

A) Three places I go all the time: Trader Joes, Dry Cleaners, My Bed (exciting life I lead)

B) Three people who e-mail me (regularly): Cathi, Teresa, Eve

C) Three of my favorite places to eat: Mustard Café (my new favorite!), Taco Tuesday (anywhere those taco's are a buck!), Cherry On Top

D) Three Places I would rather be right now: Burke Williams (any day), Hawaii (on the beach sipping a strawberry colada - ahhhh), Montana (riding horses into the sunset).

E) Three People I think will respond: Lindsey, Chrissie, Kristen (Cheney) - ha, now you have to do it :}

F) Three TV shows I could watch over and over: Friends, Seinfeld, Amazing Race

(are you happy Cath - I finally did one of your surveys!??) XOXO

Tag - your it

i'm missing you today.

2008-04-16T19:33:00.000-07:00

No particular reason,

no particular season.

I'm missing you today.

I miss your smile,

haven't seen it for awhile.

I'm missing you today.

I miss the "Mi Amor"

that greeted me when you walked through the door.

I'm missing you today.

I'm feeling the hole in my heart,

I never thought we'd part.

I'm missing you today.

My first post was one year ago today. As I read back on what my life has been like, I see how blessed I am. I have such great friends, a super supportive family, and the most amazing kids. I have a good life, God has been faithful. When I find myself struggling I make myself look - look at all I do have. I have a good life. I still miss John - that hole remains. And yet life goes on and all the good things are still there. I'm just missing him today.

Your Hired!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-04-13T21:57:00.000-07:00

My little Amber started her first official job today!

(ok she's not so little anymore)

She's a server at a little restaurant called

"Mustard Cafe"

http://www.mustardcafe.com/

It's kind of like Corner Bakery but on a smaller scale. She loved it.

It's a little bitter sweet for me. I've been holding off letting them get jobs because with school, sports, church, friends, boyfriends, family and of course MOM time, there wasn't' much time left in the week. I also wanted them to concentrate on their school work. But I knew it was time - and if they wanted a summer job they had to beat the college kids to the good jobs :} Ashley is next - I'm praying she gets the right job for her - hum.

So one more lesson in letting go................

Ahhh Lord be with me - ohhh I mean her, I mean us...................

I'm proud of you Amber - you set you mind to something and just went for it - way to go!!!!! I love you.